The new Herschel fall lineup includes the Heritage we reviewed earlier in bag week, but there are also new looks for the Little America. The smaller mid-volume version of this bag, in a Select color and material finish combination, might be more the speed of those with smaller backs, or who just don’t need a massive amount of storage space, and the signature Little America strap-and-flap look is sure to attract more than a few appreciative glances.
Our review unit features a cotton canvas made custom for Herschel’s bags, and a patterned poly fabric lining in blue stripes. There’s a laptop sleeve here, too, just as on the Heritage and on the full-size Little America, but in keeping with its smaller stature, it has a 13-inch notebook compartment instead of one with room for a 15-inch laptop. The straps are brown leather, and the flap top closes with both a drawstring and a flap to cover it entirely, with magnetic snaps in place to tie the straps down.
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The bag has a front pocket with a zipper closure, and back padding with mesh material for breathability, plus thick, contoured shoulder straps that really work well for distributing the weight you’re carrying in your pack in a way that doesn’t leave your back or your spirit broken.
Herschel’s Select line means it’s a more expensive backpack than it would be otherwise ($149.99 for this model in this style), but the materials feel top-notch and are soft to the touch, but also aren’t easily marked up or damaged; the slightly different caramel tones that give contrast coloring to the top flap and pocket also help add a subtle extra level of style.
The capacity on the Herschel Little America mid-volume isn’t anywhere near as high as it is for the full version, which can easily pack enough for a three day trip, but it’ll cover you for any day excursions, and it offers a profile when worn that’s much more svelte, which is probably better for women, wearers with smaller frames and anyone who doesn’t necessarily want their backpack to scream “backpack.”
